A referee and a student are among hundreds of people reportedly killed during massive anti-government protests in Iran.
Coach Amir Mohammad Koohkan, 26, was hit by live ammunition on January 3 during protests in Neyriz. A friend lamented his loss, stating, Everyone knew him for his kindness, and noted that the family is both grieving and angry because he was killed by the regime.
Five days later, student Rubina Aminian, 23, was shot from behind during a protest in Tehran. Her uncle highlighted her bravery, stating she fiercely fought for justice and rights.
According to a US-based rights group, nearly 500 protesters and 48 security personnel have been killed during two weeks of unrest, with sources indicating the true death toll may be higher.
Demonstrations began on December 28 in Tehran over economic issues and spread to 186 cities across Iran. Many are now calling for an end to the Islamic Republic and for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to resign.
The protests have led to a government crackdown, with reports of over 10,600 arrests and significant violence. Medical staff in Iran reported being overwhelmed by dead and injured patients.
Independent reporting from within Iran is severely restricted, exacerbated by an internet blackout imposed by the government.
Amid the upheaval, Koohkan was remembered by friends and family as a compassionate figure who was deeply loved by his community. His death underscores the tragic loss many families are experiencing amidst these protests.
Aminian's death also sparked outrage, with human rights organizations claiming she was targeted by government forces. Her family faced challenges in securing her body for burial after authorities allegedly denied them the opportunity to mourn publicly.
The existing tension in Iran echoes a similar uprising that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, illustrating ongoing discontent with the government's policies and practices.
